New Waterline Project on Highway 190

Huntsville City Engineer Yellambalsi Ramachandra gave city councilmembers an update this week on the Highway 190 East waterline replacement project. The location is along Highway 190 from Sycamore Avenue to Highway 19, about 6,500 linear feet. A 6-inch waterline is installed at present, which Ramachandra says is not sufficient in “size, demand, and circulation.” It is in the TxDOT right-of-way, under pavement in most places and is difficult and expensive to repair. Twelve breaks have been reported in the past five years. He says circulation and demand will be improved with a new waterline. It will meet requirements for fire demand and will improve chlorine issues.

They will replace the line with a 12″ waterline. It will be located in a ten-foot easement, most of which he says they have acquired. He said existing water lines will be plugged and abandoned in place . . . .

According to the latest estimates on costs for the project that Mr. Ramachandra had were $750,000, available funds $361,000, and the estimated shortfall is $389,000. He will talk with the council regarding additional funds following the bid opening on March 25th.